How can I make my fireplace special? I'd like to add some decorative interest to it.
Ricardo, NM, USA
Hi Ricardo;
You could check out the cool variety of tiles that are available Fabulous stones and marbles, and the newest tiles that have a metallic sheen, or a pearly sheen in pastel and dark shades. There's even metal tiles, so that you can create a surround as a real show piece.
You can also get the look of expensive materials with some clever painting. When re-facing a fireplace for a masculine den, I applied inlays of faux tortoiseshell around the opening. The brown and black tones are rich and exotic, and the effect isn't difficult as you are working in small sections. Use artist's acrylics to produce the true colours found in tortoiseshell.
Painted Tortoiseshell Effect:
Begin with a base coat of golden yellow. Let dry, and mask off the panels. Paint each panel separately; realistically, no two will look the same. Apply a coat of glazing liquid and while it is still wet, dab on three shades of artist's acrylic paint in random patches: raw sienna first, then scattered patches of burnt sienna and a few patches of burnt umber. Use a soft brush held at right angles and gently brush over the surface in one direction to blur the colours and remove brush strokes. When the panels are finished, remove the tape and let dry. Apply two coats of high gloss varnish. The sheen will add extra depth and definition to the faux tortoiseshell.
And here's a great tip: Apply this stunning paint effect to a plain wood box to create a memorable gift or keepsake.